Crowdfunded glass making studio opens

AWARD-winning family firm Angels' Share Glass opened a state-of-the-art glass making studio in Bridge of Allan.

It was all made possible thanks to the contributions of a range of people through a crowdfunding appeal.

Whisky expert and author Charles MacLean cut the ribbon on the new facility of the giftware company and said: “I'm so pleased to have been invited here today to open the studio - this is already a terrific company and the new venture will move it even further forward.

“The glass angels they make are very fun and appealing while the whisky water droppers are so elegant and useful - in my opinion every whisky connoisseur should have at least one of them.

“It’s wonderful to see a small Scottish company doing so well and selling their gifts all over the world.”

Co-founders Tom Young MBE and daughter Karen Somerville will now use the facility to increase production and train a new generation of glassblowers.

The crowdfunding campaign raised £11,000 towards the new studio and extra cash came from the Scottish Microfinance Fund.

Stirling Bailie Chris Kane, who was representing the provost's office, said: “It was fascinating to see one of Tom’s legendary angels being blown in the new studio, particularly by new glassblower Bee showing just how well Tom has taught her the secrets of the trade.

“It is testament to Tom – and his daughter Karen – that their creativity and business acumen has taken the journey from Tom’s garden shed to a purpose- built studio in just four years.

“With their products held in such high regard by both the whisky industry and whisky drinkers all over the world, I can’t wait to see what’s next for this Stirling business success story.”

Mr Young, who has been using traditional techniques for 60 years and received his MBE for his services to glass making, added: “Having a new studio with more space for staff to work in means a lot to me.

“It will be a great advantage when it comes to passing glassblowing skills onto a new generation of young glassmakers and making sure we keep the tradition alive.”

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